This is protective service work at the trainee level in the enforcement of laws and ordinances for the protection of life and property. Work requires a basic knowledge of techniques, methods, and procedures used in law enforcement activities such as restoring and maintaining order, conducting preliminary investigations and apprehension of criminals which is acquired through specialized training and on-the-job experience. Contacts require skills in understanding human behavior and those factors which influence or cause behavioral changes and are critical in adversarial and confrontational situations. Work follows standard operating procedures. Trainees are confronted with differing situations which require quick assessment and the use of judgment to resolve the incident at hand. Work is performed in the field in an uncontrolled environment, where risks and hazards are substantial, generally unknown and unpredictable, and possibly uncontrollable. Operates police vehicle equipped with mobile radio and other electronic data, communication devices, firearms, restraining devices, and related law enforcement equipment. Work requires sitting and walking for long periods of time and requires physical exertion in pursuit and restraint of individuals. Work is performed under direct supervision where the work assignments vary and are although subject to standard practices and procedures.

Apprehends and arrests suspects, completes arrest forms, and advises detainees and victims of applicable rights. Investigates suspicious activities and enforces laws and ordinances. Patrols assigned area to enforce traffic and other vehicle-related regulations. Responds to complaints concerning violations of laws, automobile accidents, and requests for assistance. Interviews persons, prepares reports, and makes disposition or referral as appropriate. Watches for and investigates wanted and missing persons, stolen cars, and property. Processes crime scenes for evidence; photographs crime scenes, searches for and lifts fingerprints, takes impressions of tire tracks and footprints, and prepares evidence to be presented in court. Investigates and checks pawn shops and stores for stolen articles. Operates electronic data communications equipment and two-way radio. Guards suspects and provides related security services. Transports/escorts individuals as appropriate. Administers basic first aid as required. Demonstrates proficiency in the City of Jacksonville's competencies. Performs related work as required.

Knowledge of law enforcement techniques, methods, and procedures. Knowledge of Sheriff's Office Standard Operating Procedures and General Orders. Knowledge of Florida Statutes, constitutional law, municipal ordinances, and applicable court decisions. Skill in operating automobiles, firearms, and other law enforcement equipment. Ability to read, understand, and apply information to include laws, ordinances, and regulations. Ability to prepare clear, concise and comprehensive reports. Ability to firmly, courteously and tactfully handle situations with respect for the rights of others. Ability to establish and maintain satisfactory working relationships. Ability to analyze situations quickly and objectively. Ability to act quickly and calmly in emergencies. Ability to work long hours and withstand physical and mental strains of police work. Ability to observe, understand and recall facts and information. Ability to compose and write legibly. Ability to pursue, apprehend, and restrain persons. Ability to apply personal defense techniques. Ability to learn and follow prescribed routines. Ability to follow oral and written instructions. Ability to communicate effectively in adversarial and confrontational situations. Ability to administer basic first aid.

Must possess a Bachelor's Degree from an accredited college or university recognized by the American Council on Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, OR have 2.5 years active military service, OR have four years of service in the military reserves and an Associate's Degree or equivalent (60 semester/90 quarter hours), OR four years full time law enforcement experience, OR two years full time law enforcement and an Associate's Degree or equivalent (60 semester/90 quarter hours), OR five years continuous full time employment and an Associate's Degree or equivalent (60 semester/90 quarter hours) OR four years currently employed as a full time civilian with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office and an Associate's Degree or equivalent (60 semester/90 quarter hours), OR four years currently employed as a Jacksonville Sheriff's Office Correctional Officer, Community Service Officer, Certified Bailiff, or Judicial Officer, OR two years currently employed as a Jacksonville Sheriff's Officer, Community Services Officer, Certified Bailiff, or Judicial Officer and an Associate's Degree or equivalent (60 semester/90 quarter hours). Must pass physical abilities test. Must pass psychological screening. Will be tested for controlled substances prior to employment and may be tested for controlled substances and alcohol during employment in this classification. Applicants must be at least twenty-one years of age and meet the following State required minimum qualifications: a. be a citizen of the United States b. not have been convicted of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement; c. not have received a dishonorable or undesirable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States; d. have processed fingerprints on file; e. pass medical examination which includes cardio-pulmonary stress test, back X-ray, hearing test, EKG, and visual examination to determine that applicant has normal night vision and color vision, good peripheral vision, and is free from any degenerative eye disease; f. pass a thorough background investigation including polygraph and psychological testing; g. be of good moral character; h. be tested for controlled substances and pass; i. execute and submit an "Affidavit of Applicant" form attesting to compliance with these requirements.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Will advance to Police Officer upon successful completion of Field Training Program. The probationary period for this classification is up to twelve (12) months.  This classification performs safety-sensitive functions and is subject to pre-employment, random and other drug/alcohol testing programs as set forth in the City of Jacksonville's Drug Free Workplace Policy (0401).
 
LICENSING/CERTIFICATION/REGISTRATION: FLA Law Enforcement Officer Certification must pass and maintain. FLA Class E Driver's License is required prior to appointment & must be maintained. Must qualify for prior to appointment, obtain and maintain during employment in this class a City of Jacksonville Certification as a Public Driver.  Certificate of Recognition/Compliance/Comparative Compliance in Law Enforcement is required prior to appointment & must be maintained.  CPR/First Aid Certification is required prior to appointment and must be maintained.

The City of Jacksonville is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and will provide equal opportunity to all employees and applicants in compliance with all applicable federal and state employment laws and the current interpretation of employment discrimination by the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as set forth in Directive 0528.  There shall be no discrimination or harassment against any person with regard to race, color, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, political affiliation, national origin, disability, age, marital status, veteran status, or any other impermissible factor in recruitment, hiring, compensation, training, placement, promotion, discipline, demotion, transfers, layoff, recall, termination, working conditions and related terms and conditions of employment.